Malaysia PM Ismail Sabri & UMNO Leader Zahid Meet Snr Party Members Amid Debate On GE15 Timing

Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri held a meeting with leaders of the ruling UMNO last night, local media outlets report. There has been no official communique from the informal meeting, but it is widely believed to have revolved around the next general election.

• Malaysia's ruling party is trying to determine the optimal timing for a snap election. There have been pressure on the Prime Minister from some corners within UMNO to bring it forward after the party secured resounding victories in several regional polls. However, Ismail Sabri has been reluctant to rush the decision, especially amidst controversies over the purchase of six naval frigates that could be weaponised by the opposition in the campaign period.
• Last night's meeting was held in the Prime Minister's residence and followed morning talks between UMNO President Zahid and party division leaders, which were not attended by Ismail Sabri. Zahid was absent from the subsequent meeting with the Prime Minister who doubles as UMNO Vice President. Sources told Malaysia Star that UMNO top brass wanted to meet with Ismail Sabri to learn about his plans for the next general election.
• The Straits Times ran an op-ed suggesting that conflicting accounts of what was agreed during both meetings and the fact that Zahid and Ismail Sabri organised separate talks were testament to a rift between the two leaders. This stands in contrast with the Premier's recent assurances on his friendly relations with Zahid. The two not only have conflicting views on whether to call a snap election now but are potential rivals for the position of a Prime Minister should UMNO win a general election.